Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has renewed his criticism of opposition leader Rigathi Gachagua, saying the outcome of the Mbeere North by-election showed that voters had turned away from leaders who push regional rivalry.
Ruku said the people’s choice reflected a growing desire for unity and development rather than confrontational politics.
He spoke at Suneka Catholic Parish in Bonchari, Kisii County on Saturday, where he joined worshippers for a community fellowship organised under the Catholic MPs’ Spiritual Support Initiative. Ruku said the result in Mbeere North had delivered a clear message to leaders seeking to build influence by appealing to ethnic blocs.
According to him, the public was no longer willing to support leaders who use emotional politics to push personal interests.
“Gachagua has been chest-thumping and installing himself as the Mt Kenya kingpin, but the people have spoken loudly. His kingship is self-made and unsupported. Mbeere North proved that,” he told the congregation.
He said the contest had gone beyond a battle between candidates and instead acted as a test of the leadership values Kenyans want. He noted that voters had made it clear they preferred a peaceful environment to constant political tension.
“The politics of hatred and division are behind us. Kenya is one nation, and nobody—absolutely nobody—will succeed in dividing it,” he said.
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku speaking at Suneka Catholic Parish in Bonchari, Kisii County on November 29, 2025.PHOTO/XRuku accused some leaders of pushing communities into conflict to protect their political interests. He said such behaviour had become tiresome to citizens who now want leaders to focus on service delivery rather than quarrels.
“We must not allow a few individuals to mislead communities for their selfish interests. Kenyans are tired, and they want development, not constant conflict,” he said.
He commended the voters of Mbeere North for what he described as a responsible decision that reflected their hopes for growth. Ruku said the by-election showed that people were more concerned about progress than political noise.
“Our people chose peace, development and continuity over noise. They sent a message not just to Gachagua but to every leader who believes negativity wins votes,” he added.
Ruku encouraged those who lost the contest to stay engaged, saying there would still be room to contribute within the broad-based government. He appealed to Kenyans to support President Ruto’s agenda so that the administration can continue delivering its promises.
He also cautioned young people against allowing politicians to push them into confrontations. He pointed to cases where youth were asked to block polling stations in Mbeere while chanting “Wantam,” an action he said was meant to intimidate voters aligned with the government.
Ruku urged Kenyans to remain focused on unity and development, saying the government would continue putting service delivery at the centre of its work.
“Let’s protect our unity. Let’s protect our future,” he said.
